This is the story of Stefanus Dedi Tukan, a young farmer from Boru, East Nusa Tenggara. We met No Dedi–that is how they addressed a young boy here–in May 2021, when we had the initial introduction for Ganesha Youth Project. At that time, we did not know much about him. Our knowledge was limited to general information like his name and address.
We got to know No Dedi deeper during the three months we spent working on this program. Through light and casual talks, we started to understand his life story. No Dedi is a disabled young boy with an ordinary family background. His mother sells vegetables in Pasar Boru, while his brother studies in a local institution in East Flores. Like any other young man, his upbringing is innocent and full of heartwarming jokes that brighten the mood.
No Dedi is the breadwinner of the family. He currently works as a daily farming worker with an unstable income. Apart from his daily gig, he started farming vegetables on his small land. His reasoning touched our hearts when we asked more about his farming activity. “I want to help my family’s economic condition. I also want to help with my brother’s tuition fee,” he answered.
Our talk with No Dedi inspired me and gave me a lot to think about, especially about life. Through his life story, we learned much about the blessing and the endless journey we face. Our short encounter pushed me to work harder to bring some goodness to myself and the people around me.
Warm regards,
Arnol Jemadu.
